Running. It's a Disgusting Sport. Part 1

Running.   It is a dirty, disgusting sport.   Those who don’t run and read this are thinking “Huh?   You just run”.  If you are a runner, well you know what I am talking about.  So, this post is dedicated to all the awful, uncomfortable, and even embarrassing things that can happen during and after a long run and some tips and tricks to prevent them.  

Monkey Butt

Well, that is what I am going to call it. I have heard it described other ways.  Hot cheeks, ass chaffing,crack whack, and monkey butt which is my favorite and later you will see why.  So, you ran 9 miles one morning.  You get home and hop in the shower and try hard not to scream when the water hits your backside.   The skin between your buttocks can get chafed and raw on long runs.   This is usually caused by sweating and friction.  The skin gets irritated, red and raw.  There are things you can do BEFORE this happens as well as products to use AFTER to heal the area quickly.   

BEFORE

Apparel:  Where loose running shorts instead of tight compression shorts.  Compression attire can add to the friction.    This is hard for me as I love compression shorts but, loose does make a difference.

Aquafor:  Apply to the area  before a long run.  If more than 10 miles, you may need to reapply for longer distances.  http://www.amazon.com/Aquaphor-Healing-Ointment-Irritated-Protectant/dp/B006IB5T4W/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1456085323&sr=8-2&keywords=aquafor

AFTER

Anti Monkey Butt:  Yes this product is my favorite.   It is a powder and you can actually use it before a run and after.  I use the lady version but they make a regular one as well.  Very soothing after the problem occurs!

http://www.amazon.com/DSE-Anti-Monkey-Butt-Powder-Ounce/dp/B001OXFI40/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456085218&sr=8-1&keywords=anti+monkey+butt

Boudreaux’s Butt Paste:  I used the product religiously for my babies diaper rashes back in the day and it always cleared it up right away, so one day when I experienced the post run burn, I found a leftover tube of Boudreaux’s.   It worked perfectly!!  Apply a couple times in 24 hours and the problem will be gone!  

http://www.amazon.com/Boudreauxs-Butt-Paste-Ointment-Protectant/dp/B001190D5Q/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1456085549&sr=8-4&keywords=beaudreaux+butt+paste

Thigh Chafing

A not so friendly term for it, Chub Rub.   Spring is about to arrive and it’s time to pack away the running tights and capris for our running shorts.  This is usually when this problem occurs and seems to occur more often with women than men.  Friction where the skin touches can cause chafing, redness and irritation.   If this is a problem you have experienced, you can prevent it fairly easily.  

Lube:  There are many lube products for runners on the market, but Body Glide seems to be the one most runners have mentioned as their favorite.   Apply to inner thigh area before a run.  

http://www.amazon.com/Bodyglide-Original-Anti-Chafe-1-5oz-Packaging/dp/B00288L2N6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456085870&sr=8-1&keywords=running+lube

Attire:  Compression bike shorts under running shorts are an option as well as running skirts that are very popular now.   I often run in my lightweight capri tights or bike shorts even in hot months,  Find what is comfortable for you.  For men, Under Armour compression boxer briefs under running shorts work great as well.

CHAFED & BLEEDING NIPPLES

I am sure you have seen those marathon race photos of the poor guy with blood stripes down the front of his shirt.   If not, well, here ya go.

from FLICKR

I have not experienced this as a female runner, not to say it couldn't happen but this is pretty much associated with men.    There are many recommended solutions to prevent this from occurring.  Some recommend applying vaseline before a run, using Body Glide, and even applying bandaids prior to a run,   So, here is my runner husband's favorite solutions:  

3M Transpore first aid tape.  The key word here is TRANSPORE.   This is a breathable tape.which makes a big difference.  This product is not always easy to find but he swears by it.  

http://www.nexcare.com.au/wps/portal/3M/en_AU/APACNexcare/Nexcare/ProductCat/~/Nexcare-Flexible-Clear-Transpore-Tape-Dispenser?N=4326+3294529197+3294631562&rt=rud

Part 2 of this dirty topic coming soon!   Will cover topics such as runner’s trots, blisters, black toe nails, and leaky bladder! If you have an embarrassing runner problem you want me to include, comment or email me. Happy Running!

“Let us run with perseverance the race set before us.”  -Heb 12:1

2 Girls and Some Weights

2 Girls and Some Weights

I wanted to write again this week but had a hard time choosing a topic.  There have been so many things on my mind lately.  In the forefront, has been the economy and politics; Sunday’s sermon had me thinking about those in thankless jobs and taking the time to appreciate those who do small things in my life.   Then, on my way home from the gym Monday, soaked in sweat and feeling quite fatigued, I almost got sideswiped in the minivan by a women in a very small, older model Chevy.    In the van, I sit higher up and could see down into her vehicle.    She was at least 250 lbs, holding a breakfast sandwich form a fast food joint, and steering her vehicle with her knees.   I am not even sure how she fit in that car.  That is when I knew what I would right about next.

Instead of getting angry and “cussing” the woman out (knowing she can’t hear me), my very first thought was “How sad.  I could help her”.   I do not know why I thought at that moment that I could help her.   I guess because in the last 8 months, I have worked to get myself in the best shape of my life.   No, I am not 100 lbs (as I don’t think that is healthy either) but I am at a healthy weight, one I have not been at since I was 20 and certainly much stronger.    I truly did feel so sad for that woman.   She was more concerned about devouring her food than driving her car in a safe manner, and from her size, this was probably not an infrequent incident.    I wondered why she let herself get to that point. 

This got me thinking about my next career when my kids are both in school, and I think maybe fitness is it.    If I could help people lose weight and get healthy, I would truly feel a sense of accomplishment.  I have some exercise pals that started this journey with me and having a support system, whether it is a friend, family member, trainer or instructor is vital to success.    I am no “Jillian Michaels” but I have some spunk and I do know what kind of commitment it takes to get in shape, and more so, stay in shape.   So with some proper education, training, certifications and convincing a friend join me, I am envisioning “2 Girls and Some Weights”.   We will come to your house, office, a park, anywhere really, with weights in tow (because that is all you really need) ready to work.   Well, maybe in a couple of years. 

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23